Today we bring you one of the best routes to do in Manresa, which is simply fantastic. It is like walking in the middle of medieval times, but in the XXI century. In addition, the capital of the Bages is one of the many sites where you can find original routes and excursions within the province of Barcelona. All this due to the great variety of leisure plans it offers, making it one of the most visited cities in Catalonia.
This route that we propose to you, goes from the Fortí del Maurici to Castell de Sant Mateu, and consists of the visit of 3 incredible medieval castles. In a full day relaxing getaway in Catalonia, we will get to know the history, architecture and the real magic of these fortifications. For this and many other routes and excursions in Catalonia, we recommend you to bring trekking shoes and something to eat on the way, preferably a sandwich or picnic food. Always remember to keep the packaging, bags, plastics, bottles, and never throw them away in the middle of nature. Near Manresa, we have other equally beautiful and curious routes, such as the one we told you about visiting the Cova Simanya in the Natural Park of Sant Llorenç i l’Obac, things to do in Mura, or our excursion to Castellfollit del Boix.
To begin our route, we are pleased to introduce the Fortí del Maurici. This place is a military construction from the Carlist period in 1838. This castle is located on top of a peak known as “Serrat del Mauricio”, the place name that gives its name to this wall.
In our second stop, we will arrive at the Castellnou Castle or also called the “Castle of the Ship”. A fortification built in the middle of the tenth century, which gathers a great medieval charm.
And last but not least, we will visit the Castle of Sant Mateu. A castle documented since 983 AD. It currently holds the title of “cultural property of national interest”.
Fortí del Maurici
Although this 19th century fortification is in ruins, it is still the maximum representation of military art, characteristic of this century. According to the story, this castle was never finished, so it is said that the ideal was to build a square castle with three circular towers and a few openings for a better peripheral vision. However, it served throughout the century as a military defense shield against invasions and attacks by liberal troops. Undoubtedly a place where freedom and history come together.
I’m sure you’re wondering… Why go to a ruined castle? The visit to the Fortí del Maurici, is also surrounded by nature, from this place you get an incredible view of the valleys and the village. In addition, the sunsets are incredible and the hiking trails are no exception. Without a doubt we could not fail to recommend this incredible place.
Castellnou Tower
The Castellnou Tower or also called “Castillo del Buque”, surprises us with its enigmatic history. According to archaeologists, this tower was built as a watchtower for the protection of the temple, but due to imminent attacks during the conquests, it was never rebuilt. Later it was a sacred refuge, becoming a cemetery, until it came into the hands of the Balsareny family (which lasted very little in their power), and then it was taken away by King James I, after reaching commercial agreements with the church. Undoubtedly, a place that belonged to different characters, but still remains part of the history and culture of Catalonia.
This tour to theTower of Castellnou, seems to us an incredible plan that brings together the best of medieval charm and nature. It is also ideal for a family getaway with children in Catalonia, as it does not take long to visit. What we do recommend is to climb with great caution and during the visit be very attentive to the rocks and some slopes that may occur.
Sant Mateu Castle
Sant Mateu Castle is located in the village of Sant Mateu de Bages, just near the chapel of San Miguel de Planes. The little that can be seen of this construction (due to its state of ruins) is that it was adapted to the topography of the terrain, and it was an elliptical wall with a series of rooms to house the owners and their guests.
About the existence of this castle, it is known that it was built around the year 983, but according to archaeological data it is said that it took more than 3 centuries to be finished. Initially, the castle was dominated by the Counts of Barcelona, although it belonged to numerous families, and today it is part of one of the most important archaeological treasures of the region, and obviously of Catalonia. A very good reason not to miss this visit to the Castle of Sant Mateu.
